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Online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences

BS Health Sciences graduate helping a patient who is wearing a cast on her left wrist.

UC’s online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences program provides students with an in-depth science background to prepare them for the opportunity through further studies to work in fields such as physical therapy, medicine, dentistry, exercise science, occupational therapy, public health, health administration, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, and medical dietetics.

What is Health Sciences?

At its most basic level, Health Sciences is the study of all the ways in which you can deliver and improve healthcare. However, it goes deeper than that – utilizing scientific research and practical application to improve population health through a wide array of specialties related to the delivery of health care.

This program is designed for those with an existing associate degree in an allied health field, such as nursing, physical therapy assisting, or medical assisting. By completing a bachelor’s degree, you’ll gain a broader knowledge base and potentially qualify for new job opportunities or higher positions within your current field. This can also lead to increased earning potential and career advancement.

This path allows you to contribute to the healthcare system through leadership and management roles. Your bachelor’s degree provides a solid foundation for:

  • Healthcare facility manager: Overseeing the daily operations of hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities, with a median salary of $98,350.
  • Health services manager: Managing specific healthcare services like surgery centers or emergency departments, earning a median of $99,730.
  • Practice administrator: Responsible for administrative duties in medical practices, with a median salary of $98,010.

This program is ideal if you’re aiming to pursue a graduate degree in a specific healthcare field like physical therapy, medicine, or public health. The coursework provides a strong academic foundation in health sciences, preparing you for the rigors of graduate studies.

While this degree doesn’t qualify you for direct patient care roles like physicians or registered nurses, it can serve as a strong foundation for further specialized education. After graduation, you can pursue:

  • Master’s in Nursing (MSN): Licensed registered nurses (RNs) earn a median annual wage of $77,600. An MSN can open doors to advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) roles like nurse practitioners (NPs) with a median salary of $118,040 or certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) earning a median of $181,040.
  • Physician Assistant (PA) studies: PAs work under the supervision of physicians and perform various medical tasks, earning a median annual salary of $129,300.
  • Occupational therapy (OT) or physical therapy (PT) programs: These programs prepare you to help individuals regain or improve physical and functional abilities, with OTs making a median of $89,440 and PTs earning a median of $91,010.

BS Health Sciences Program Highlights

High Quality Education

Rigorous coursework: Dive deep into anatomy, physiology, public health, and more, building a solid foundation for graduate studies.

Faculty expertise: Learn from passionate instructors and mentors with real-world healthcare experience.

Specialization prep: Explore your interests with electives focused on areas like public health policy, health administration, or pre-professional tracks for medicine, nursing, and beyond.

*UC’s Pre-Professional Advising team is another resource for students to prepare for a career in healthcare: Learn More

Graduate school readiness: Sharpen your research and writing skills through a capstone project, preparing you for the graduate school application process.

Flexibility

  • 100% online
  • Financial aid available
  • Graduate in 2-4 years
  • Designed for full- or part-time students
  • Start dates in spring, summer, and fall

Support from Application through Graduation

At UC, you’ll have a full support team behind you:


The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences degree is an online associate to bachelor’s completion program. Bachelor’s degree-seeking students at the University of Cincinnati are required to complete a minimum of 120 semester credit hours for graduation. Up to 90 semester credit hours of prior college coursework taken at an accredited institution can be transferred in and applied to the program. Students may be required to take additional coursework to meet the 120 credit hour minimum requirement. To learn more about our online Bachelor’s in Health Sciences curriculum, we encourage you to review the curriculum offerings listed below.

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Prerequisite Coursework
Course Title/Description Credit
BIOL2001C 

Anatomy and Physiology I

This is the first course in a two-semester sequence designed to provide in-depth examination of the structure and functions of the human body. This course will cover the basic biochemistry and cell physiology upon which the study of human physiology will be based. It also covers the structure and functions of human tissues, and the Integumentary, Skeletal, Muscular, and Nervous Systems. Includes a required laboratory. Does not count toward biology major.

4
BIOL1XXX+

Biology with Lab (BIOL 1000+ equivalent)

Choose one.

4 - 5
CHEM1XXX+

Chemistry with Lab (CHEM 1000+ equivalent)

Choose one.

4 - 5
Required Courses
Course Title/Description Credit
NUTR1030

Personal Nutrition

This course looks at the importance of an appropriate diet and nutritional practices in one's life. It provides students with an introductory look at macronutrients and micronutrients. It reviews their basic metabolism,absorption, transport, and their effects on an individual's diet to promote optimal health and lessen the risk for chronic disease. Students willassess and compare dietary intakes to national reference standards.

3
NUTR2010

Nutrition and Exercise

This course will provide students with a working knowledge regarding the principles of exercise physiology as it relates to nutrition and exercise, the principles of nutritional assessment techniques related to physical fitness and physical performance, and the biochemical and physiological effects and mechanisms of action regarding performance enhancing agents.

3
NUTR2020

Lifecycle Nutrition

This course examines the nutritional needs necessary to support growth and development from conception through adulthood and aging. Students calculate protein, calorie, and fluid needs for individuals in each stage of the life cycle using standard equations and attempt to justify the results of their calculations.

3
PHIL2029

Medical Ethics

Ethical issues loom large in medical treatment and research. This course is an introduction to the field of medical ethics for students with no prior background in philosophy. This course does not teach students to memorize a professional code of ethics, but rather to think for themselves about difficult moral concepts like freedom, autonomy, rights, fairness, equality, honesty, consent, and harm. Topics and cases covered in the course vary with the instructor but may include some of the following: privacy, informed consent, access to health care, eugenics, genetic engineering, organ donation, disability, end-of-life care, assisted suicide, experimental treatments, abortion, pediatric ethics, religious objections to medical care, public health issues, global bioethics, race and gender in medicine, and new or emerging medical technologies. A central goal of this course is for you to develop the skills to recognize and analyze ethical issues in medicine, especially when different values come into conflict.

3
PHYS1005C

Physics for Allied Health

An introduction to physics for future health care professionals. Lectures and labs are centered around a survey of topics that apply to the allied health profession. Topics include mechanics (units, motion, forces, friction, gravity, inertia, lever systems, momentum, work, energy, power), thermodynamics (temperature and heat), pressure and fluids, waves and sound, basic electricity and safety, and light.

3
PSYC2040

Developmental Psychology

This course introduces developmental psychology, focusing specifically on theoretical frameworks and empirical research related to human development across the lifespan. The course covers physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development from conception to death, with an emphasis on a variety of factors influencing development such as biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.

3
STAT1031

Introduction to Statistics

A one-semester comprehensive introduction to statistics suitable for students in biology, nursing, allied health, and applied science. Discussion of data, frequency distributions, graphical and numerical summaries, design of statistical studies, and probability as a basis for statistical inference and prediction. The concepts and practice of statistical inference including confidence intervals, one and two sample t-tests, chi-square tests, regression and analysis of variance, with attention to selecting the procedure(s) appropriate for the question and data structure, and interpreting and using the result. Prerequisite: at least 30 on the ALEKS Math test or 420 on the Math Placement Test (MPT) is recommended.

3
HLTH3098

Research Methods in Health Sciences

In this course, students will learn skills that are the foundation of evidence-based practice. These skills include identifying major study design approaches, formulating research questions that align with specific study designs, and interpreting the most common statistical methods used in clinical and population health research. Students will also learn about ethical research conduct and about community engagement to build trust with research participants and strengthen research equity and impact. Through interprofessional collaboration, students will learn how to locate peer-reviewed research articles, how to navigate through the different sections of a research article, summarize its key elements, and critically appraise its strengths and weaknesses. Students will also learn how evidence-based practice guidelines are derived from systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

3
HLSC2012

Medical Terminology

This distance learning course introduces students to the language of medicine and allied health while reviewing the major organ systems of the body. Students will learn at their own pace within the boundaries of the course schedule.

2
HLSC2022C

Musculoskeletal Anatomy for DL

This course is designed to provide the student with basic information in human surface anatomy and the origins, insertions, actions and nerve supply of the major muscles of the body. It also introduces the students to basic palpation and other handling techniques necessary to perform physical assessments. Basic information on common musculoskeletal injuries and conditions is included in the course.

3
HLSC3014

Pharmacology for Health Sciences

This is the fourth course in the foundations sequence of classes for Health Science majors in the College of Allied Health Sciences. The course focuses on common pharmacologic agents and their effects on health and health behaviors. The students will learn the general classifications and sub-classifications of common pharmacologic substances, their indications and contraindications for use, and their actions and side-effects. Included in the course is a discussion of basic physiology and how these agents alter it, how those alterations affect activity tolerance, and the necessary adjustments in activity programs in order for those programs to remain safe. The basic pathophysiology of common medical conditions will be introduced at it relates to the effects and side-effects of drugs commonly used for that condition.

3
HLSC3020

Introduction to Biomechanics and Kinesiology

This online course is designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the fields of Biomechanics and Kinesiology. This includes terminology, an examination of concepts and principles, and performing the analyses and calculations necessary to examine mechanical characteristics of basic human movements. Students will also examine the basic structural and kinematic characteristics of the musculoskeletal system, including the major joints of the spine and the extremities. This course is designed to meet the skills sets described by the ACSM and the NSCA as necessary components for entry level certifications. It does not satisfy the Introductory Biomechanics or Kinesiology requirements for the HLSC-EM or HLSC-PS degree tracks.

3
HLSC3031

General Exercise Physiology

This course covers the study of the physiological systems of the human body and how they relate to exercise and stress. Topics include energy systems, metabolism, muscle, cardiovascular, respiratory, neural, endocrine, environmental and work physiology.

3
HLSC4017

Introductory Pathophysiology

This course is intended for senior health sciences students who are destined for graduate school and/or advanced health care training. The students will be introduced to the systems or organ-based pathologies of diseases and their treatments. The course will briefly review normal physiology of various organs and systems and then proceed to describe diseases of various etiologies which affect them. Standard treatments for these diseases will be discussed and evaluated. The organs and systems are the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, endocrine, renal, respiratory, immunologic, and reproductive.

3
HLSC3035

Physical Conditioning and Testing

This course covers the guidelines and accepted methods for exercise testing, strength and conditioning established by the American College of Sports Medicine and the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Students apply knowledge from previous coursework in anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and kinesiology. Students will develop exercise protocols/prescriptions using accepted methods of exercise testing and apply knowledge of methods to strength and conditioning training. There is a lecture and a laboratory component to the course.

3
HLSC4020

Motor Learning and Movement Control

This course is designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the neuro-anatomic and neuro-muscular components of human movement. This includes terminology, basic neuro-anatomy as it relates to the neuromuscular system, an examination of concepts and principles of movementcontrol and motor learning. Students will execute self-directed motor learning activities, performing the observations and analyses necessaryto form conclusions regarding the neuromuscular performance characteristics of human movements. This course is designed to meet the skills sets described by the ACSM and the NSCA as necessary components to qualify to take entry level certification examinations. There are online presentations, self-directed activities, and a course project. This course meets the requirementsof the basic Bachelors degree in Health Sciences but it does not satisfy the requirements for the Health Sciences-Exercise & Movement (HLSC-EM) or the Health Sciences-Physiologic Science (HLSC-PS) degree tracks.

3
HLSC4039

Exercise Considerations and Application for Special Populations

This course will introduce students to special populations and discuss exercise physical activity for children, youth, aging and other special populations.. The student will apply concepts from anatomy, physiology, exercise conditioning, biomechanics, kinesiology, and motor growth and development and apply the principles to exercise and activity for these populations.

2
HLSC5019

Pre-Occupational Therapy/Health Sciences: Distance Learning Capstone

This capstone course concludes Pre-Occupational Therapy-DL and Health Sciences-DL students' undergraduate education by allowing students to assess the available literature on a clinical-based question of their choice. Students, in collaboration with their instructor, will select a clinical-based question and then locate and critically appraise available literature to create a summary of findings and a presentation detailing the key findings from the research. Students will also review/learn key aspects of assessing research studies.

4
All incoming transfer credit will be reviewed and assessed for successful completion of UC's General Education Requirements. Student may be required to take courses to complete general education if they are not meeting the full requirements as outlined below.
Course Title/Description Credit
ENGL1001 

English Composition

English Composition 1001 is a writing-centered course that emphasizes the careful reading, analytical thinking, and persuasive strategies inherent in researching and writing within an academic community. Students learn that rhetorical knowledge is the basis of composing while learning to write with purpose, audience, context, and conventions in mind. Students develop rigorous academic research practices: how to locate and evaluate primary and secondary sources relevant to their line of inquiry and position their own ideas in conversation with public writing. Students also engage in regular self-reflection: articulating what they know, what they can do, and how to apply their knowledge and skills in various contexts.

3
ENGL2089 

Intermediate Composition

Intermediate Composition is a writing-centered course that builds on what students learn in first-year composition and focuses students’ attention on theoretical underpinning of how meaning is made, understood, and communicated within and across various discourse communities and genres. The course emphasizes critical reading and writing, advanced research and analysis skills, and rhetorical sensitivity to differences in academic, professional, and public composing. This course challenges students to engage in substantive projects drawing on primary research and source analysis methods and asks students to document, communicate, and reflect on their research.

3
MATH1021 

College Algebra

Study of linear, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions, systems of linear equations, systems of inequalities, and modeling with functions.

3
PSYC1001 

Introduction to Psychology

This course is designed to give an overview of the field of Psychology and its major sub-fields, including (but not limited to) physiological (biology of behavior, consciousness, perception), cognitive (learning, thought, language), social, organizational, developmental, personality, and psychopathology and its treatment. Students will be equipped to compare the advantages and disadvantages of the various research methods used in the field. Students will be encouraged to critically think about the psychological theories discussed, and be able to apply those and their findings to their lives.  

3
GE Codes: SBS

Social & Behavioral Sciences (SBS) Elective (Not PSYC)

3 credits other than PSYC subject that meets the SBS designation.

3
GE Codes: AH,CD

UC Gen Ed (double dip) Arts and Humanities (AH) + Civility & Democracy (CD) not PHIL

Select course that is both AH and CD codes. Must be different subject code from other Arts & Humanities not PHIL subject.

3
2XXX BoK: NS

Natural Sciences (NS) 2000+ Elective

3 credits 2000-level course that meets the NS designation.

3
Prerequisites - Summer 2026

To be admitted to the program, students must have:

  • An associate degree from an accredited allied health program
  • A minimum cumulative college GPA of 2.5
Prerequisites - Fall 2026 and Beyond

To be admitted to the program, students must have:

  • A minimum cumulative college GPA of 2.5
  • 24 completed semester credit hours at the time of application
  • Must have equivalent college credit for Chemistry with lab, Biology with lab, and Anatomy and Physiology I*

*The transfer equivalency database tool can be used to check if requirements have been met via transfer credits. Use the "Equivalent Course" search function to find equivalences for the UC courses listed below at other institutions:

  • CHEM 1030 and CHEM1030L OR CHEM 1040 and CHEM 1040L
  • BIOL 1081 and BIOL 1081L
  • BIOL 2001C      

Complete the online application and submit the application fee.

Standard Application Fees:

  • $50.00 for domestic applicants to most degree programs
  • $100.00 for international applicants to most degree programs
  • Application fees for UC Online programs are waived through Summer 2026 for all applicants
  • Fee waivers are automatically applied for applicants who: 
    • are currently serving in the US armed forces
    • are veterans of the US armed forces

Applications are accepted continuously throughout the year. Our staff will review your application based on the following:

After submitting your application form, all applicants are required to have official transcripts sent directly to University of Cincinnati in order to be eligible for admissions review.

  • First-Year and Transfer Applicants with Fewer Than 24 Completed Semester Hours at a Prior College:
    • Order official transcripts from your high school and all prior colleges (if applicable) for delivery directly to University of Cincinnati.
  • Transfer Applicants with 24+ Completed Semester Hours at a Prior College: 
    • Order official transcripts from all prior colleges for delivery directly to University of Cincinnati. 
    • You are exempt from the High School transcript requirement, this item will be removed from your application checklist once your college documents are received.

Please review the section below for guidance on how to submit your transcripts.

Online transcript request systems are the preferred method to deliver official transcripts electronically. To see if your transcript(s) can be ordered electronically, visit the links below and search for your previous school(s).

If you do not see your past school(s) listed on either site, please contact the school(s) directly to determine their ordering process. 

If a physical copy must be sent, DO NOT request it be delivered to you. It must be sent directly from your prior school to the following address:

University of Cincinnati
Office of Admissions
PO Box 210091
Cincinnati, Ohio 45221-0091

  • In order to apply to University of Cincinnati as a transfer student, learners must submit a transfer application form and have official transcripts sent directly to UC from all prior institutions they’ve attended.

  • To request these transcripts, please contact your previous institution’s registrar and ask them to send the official transcript to the University of Cincinnati via an approved electronic method such as Parchment, eScrip-Safe, National Student Clearinghouse, or similar services. This is the preferred method. If electronic submission isn’t available, transcripts may be mailed to the Office of Admissions at:

 

University of Cincinnati

Office of Admissions 

PO Box 210091

Cincinnati, OH 45221

 

  • Students living abroad are eligible to pursue this program, but will not be qualified for F1 Visa applications.

  • Applicants with college coursework completed outside the United States are required to provide a course-by-course foreign credential evaluation for each college or university you attended outside the United States. This evaluation must be obtained from a service listed on the NACES member website.

At the University of Cincinnati, we offer multiple start dates to accommodate your schedule. 
Term Application Deadline Classes Start

Summer 2026

Fall 2026

Spring 2027

March 15, 2026

July 15, 2026

November 15, 2026

May 11, 2026

August 24, 2026

January 11, 2026

The University of Cincinnati's online course fees differ depending on the program. On average, students will accrue fewer fees than students attending on-campus classes.

The one fee applied across all UC Online programs is the distance learning fee. Students living outside the state of Ohio must also pay an additional “non-resident” fee to enroll in courses at UC Online. This fee is lower than the out-of-state fee for traditional on-campus programs.

To view tuition information and program costs, visit the Online Program Fees page.

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